AntiBacCat

The aim of the project is to develop next-generation venous catheter coatings that simultaneously prevent bacterial infections and thromboembolic events. For this purpose, the most advanced technologies from academia will be further developed to be integrated into the current production process at the industrial partner Vygon.

Venous catheters are indispensable components of modern medical practice and contribute significantly to improving the therapeutic success of patients. Despite advanced catheter technologies, complications often occur with their use, leading to prolonged hospital stays, increased mortality and an increase in healthcare costs. Even the surface of the most advanced catheters inevitably activates blood clotting. This leads to the accumulation of fibrin and other blood components on the surface of the catheter and results in the formation of thrombi and a fibrin sheath, causing catheter occlusion and vascular damage. The deposition of blood components on the catheter surface significantly promotes colonisation with bacteria and the formation of biofilms that are difficult to treat. In AntiBacCat, a nanocoating is being developed that has bactericidal activity and simultaneously repels blood components and bacteria, the so-called "kill-and-repell" principle.

AntiBacCat will bridge the gap between the most advanced antifouling coatings from academia and the current requirements and economic challenges of the catheter industry to enable companies from the Rhineland area to achieve a unique position in the market.